Blowen’s dedication to providing a dignified retirement for former racehorses at Old Friends has created a sanctuary for these equine athletes in their golden years. Established in 2003, the farm has grown to become a home for about 250 retired racehorses, including notable champions like Silver Charm and I’ll Have Another. Visitors can take guided tours to see these equine legends up close and learn about their histories. The farm has become an essential stop for race fans, especially during the Derby season when the farm celebrates its own version of Legends Day.
Silver Charm, the 1997 Kentucky Derby winner, is one of the most beloved residents at Old Friends. Despite his age and reduced physical abilities, Silver Charm still brings joy to visitors with his predictable routine and occasional bursts of energy. As a symbol of the care that all retired racehorses deserve, Silver Charm embodies the mission of Old Friends to provide a comfortable and dignified retirement for these former athletes. The farm’s CEO, John Nicholson, emphasizes that the horses have given so much to the industry and it is the responsibility of humans to give back in their later years.
The fraternity of former Derby winners extends globally, with many retiring to breeding careers after their racing days are over. Silver Charm followed this path, starting his stud career at Three Chimneys Farm in Kentucky before spending time in Japan. His return to Old Friends marked a new chapter in his life as an ambassador for the farm, alongside other retired champions like Touch Gold and Swain. Not all residents at Old Friends were champions, as horses like Zippy Chippy, who never won a race in his 100 attempts, also found solace in their final years at the farm.
Old Friends relies on donations to cover its operational expenses, which can reach millions of dollars annually. The farm is committed to accepting any thoroughbred that an owner wishes to retire there, with an emphasis on horses at “great risk” and stallions returning from overseas. The dedication of the staff and volunteers at Old Friends ensures that each horse receives the care and attention they deserve in their retirement years. The farm’s mission is to provide a peaceful and loving environment for these equine athletes to live out their days in comfort.
Silver Charm’s impact goes beyond his racing achievements, as he has become a symbol of the life that all former racehorses deserve. Visitors like Susan Hale, who were inspired by Silver Charm during his racing days, find joy in seeing him thriving in retirement at Old Friends. Silver Charm’s presence at the farm is a reminder of the lasting bond between humans and horses, and the responsibility that comes with caring for these magnificent animals. For Blowen, Silver Charm remains a constant source of inspiration and joy, a reminder of the beauty and grace of these incredible creatures.
